How to Dry Pumpkin Seeds for Planting

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How to Dry Pumpkin Seeds for Planting

Overview

During the holiday seasons when pumpkins are a plenty, most people don't think of saving seeds to be planted in their next garden. Typically, the seeds are dried and roasted as a holiday treat. However, by saving the seeds from just one or two pumpkins you can grow an entire pumpkin patch for the next holiday season.

Step 1

Cut the top around the stem out of each pumpkin you would like to collect seeds from with your knife. Separate the seeds from the pulp.

Step 2

Put the seeds in a colander and rinse them under lukewarm running water. Drain the water off thoroughly.

Step 3

Use a towel to dry the water from the seeds. Spread the seeds out evenly on a cookie sheet. Put them in a cool, dry area.

Step 4

Turn and stir the seeds once each day for the next two days. Let the seeds dry for 1 month on the tray.

Step 5

Put your seeds in an envelope once they are thoroughly dry. Label the type of pumpkin on the envelope, and include today's date. Store your seeds in a dry, cool place or the freezer.

Things You'll Need

Pumpkins

Knife

Colander

Towel

Cookie sheet

Envelope

References

National Gardening Association

Keywords:
pumpkin seeds, seed saving, pumpkin growing

About this Author

Based in Ann Arbor, Mich., Robin Coe has reported on a variety of subjects for more than 15 years. Coe has worked on environmental health and safety issues in communities across Ohio and Michigan. Coe holds a Bachelor of Science in journalism with a double-major in international politics from Bowling Green State University. She has also received training and experience as a nurse aide.